Young Cypriots spend an average of three hours daily on TikTok, highlighting how social media has become central to their news consumption habits. A recent survey by IMR/University of Nicosia for the Cyprus Youth Organisation (ONEK) revealed that 74% of respondents prefer social media channels from news organisations as their primary source of information.
Instagram Leads the Way
The study, which surveyed 1,000 individuals aged 14 to 35, found that Instagram is the most popular platform, with 92% of young people maintaining accounts. On average, they spend nearly two hours daily on Instagram, engaging with a variety of content, including news updates.
Daily Time Spent on Social Media
In addition to TikTok and Instagram, young people dedicate time to other platforms, spending 47.3 minutes on Facebook and 25.7 minutes on X (formerly Twitter). Interestingly, the survey noted that time spent on social media decreases with age, with younger users averaging three hours daily, while older demographics tend to spend around one hour.
The Allure of TikTok and Instagram
Respondents identified TikTok as the most addictive platform, while Instagram has evolved into a vital communication tool, featuring stories, reels, and direct messaging. Many young users turn to Instagram for news, often scanning headlines or following links for deeper insights when a particular topic piques their interest.
Shifts in Content Consumption
Short video content is increasingly popular, with 84% of young people watching videos under three minutes for in-depth information. Additionally, a significant number, 66%, engage with longer video formats. Podcasts are also gaining traction, as 54% of respondents listen to episodes under 15 minutes, often while multitasking.
Concerns About Misinformation
Despite their heavy reliance on social media for news, many young Cypriots voice concerns about the accuracy of the information they encounter. The survey revealed that 40% struggle to assess the validity of news content, with 88% having come across misinformation. To counter this, young people often cross-reference information from multiple sources or turn to official news websites, which they ranked as the most reliable source.
Current Affairs Take Centre Stage
The survey indicated a strong interest in current affairs among young people, with 63% wanting information on police, social, and political issues. Participants expressed a desire to stay informed about significant events both locally and globally, with many citing economic concerns and housing issues as critical areas of interest.
Economic Anxiety Shapes Information Needs
Economic circumstances and limited job prospects are overarching worries for many young Cypriots. The survey highlighted that feelings of pessimism stem from a mismatch between their qualifications and available employment opportunities. Many participants noted that salaries have stagnated, which exacerbates their financial concerns and affects their ability to achieve goals such as home ownership.
Social Inequalities and Future Outlook
Young people’s interest in social issues extends to topics of inequality and discrimination, with many expressing frustration over perceived lack of meritocracy in society. Concerns about the future of their communities were also prominent, including fears related to immigration and social unrest.
Commitment to Action by Youth Organisations
In light of these findings, Konstantina Achilleos, chair of ONEK’s board of directors, emphasised the importance of providing young people with reliable information sources. She acknowledged the rapid changes in how the younger generation consumes news and the need for proactive measures to address their concerns.
